- Details
- Statistics
- Lineup
FIFA Club World Cup
Fluminense
Al-Hilal Saudi FC| Fluminense | Statistic | Al-Hilal Saudi FC |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Shots on Goal | 4 |
| 3 | Shots off Goal | 4 |
| 10 | Total Shots | 15 |
| 4 | Blocked Shots | 7 |
| 5 | Shots insidebox | 9 |
| 5 | Shots outsidebox | 6 |
| 13 | Fouls | 12 |
| 4 | Corner Kicks | 12 |
| 3 | Offsides | 1 |
| 43 | Ball Possession | 57 |
| 3 | Yellow Cards | 4 |
| 0 | Red Cards | 0 |
| 3 | Goalkeeper Saves | 1 |
| 333 | Total passes | 432 |
| 282 | Passes accurate | 382 |
| 85 | Passes % | 88 |
| 0 | expected_goals | 0 |
| 0 | goals_prevented | 0 |
3-5-2
Lineup
5-3-2
FluminenseSubstitutes
- 29 Thiago Santos ()
- 23 Guga ()
- 45 Lima ()
- 9 Everaldo ()
- 35 Hércules ()
- 77 Paulo Baya ()
- 10 Ganso ()
- 26 Manoel ()
- 11 Keno ()
- 17 A. Canobbio ()
- 7 Y. Soteldo ()
- 98 Vitor Eudes ()
- 18 R. Lezcano ()
- 90 K. Serna ()
- 19 J. Lavega ()
Coach: 0
- 88 Hamad Al Yami ()
- 18 Musab Al Juwayr ()
- 5 Ali Al Bulayhi ()
- 27 Kaio César ()
- 10 A. Hamed-Allah ()
- 15 Mohammed Al Qahtani ()
- 17 Mohammed Al Yami ()
- 12 Yasser Al Shahrani ()
- 40 Ahmad Aburasyin ()
- 7 Khalid Al Ghannam ()
- 39 Abdulaziz Hadhood ()
- 78 Ali Lajami ()
- 4 Khalifah Al Dawsari ()
Coach: 0
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has already delivered unprecedented drama and upsets, and as the tournament enters its quarter-final stage, the excitement only intensifies. Two of the most compelling narratives have emerged from the unexpected triumphs of Brazil’s Fluminense and Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal. These teams have not only defied expectations but have also reshaped the tournament bracket, setting the stage for a captivating clash between two sides riding a wave of confidence.
Both Fluminense and Al Hilal secured their quarter-final berths with stunning Round of 16 victories. Fluminense dispatched Italian giants Inter Milan with a commanding 2-0 win, while Al Hilal pulled off a monumental 4-3 extra-time victory over English champions Manchester City. These results underscore a significant shift in the tournament’s dynamics, where non-European teams are demonstrating their prowess on the global stage. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the
Fluminense vs Al Hilal quarter-final, covering everything from the crucial match details and how to watch, to in-depth team news, tactical analyses, and an expert prediction.
Match Essentials: Date, Kick-off Time & Venue
The highly anticipated quarter-final clash between Fluminense and Al Hilal is scheduled for Friday, July 4, 2025. This pivotal match will kick off at 3:00 PM ET (Eastern Time) in the United States. For fans tuning in from the UK, this translates to 8:00 PM BST (British Summer Time).
The battle of these giant-slayers will unfold at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This venue is one of the key locations for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which is being hosted across several cities in the United States, including those that will also host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. The tournament itself spans from June 14 to July 13, 2025, featuring an expanded format with 32 teams from six confederations competing for the prestigious title and a share of the impressive $1 billion prize money. This quarter-final is a crucial step for both teams on their path towards the final on July 13.
#FIFACWC Quarter-Finals. 🔜#CWC2025 pic.twitter.com/D8teRKXUIq
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) July 2, 2025
Match Details & Broadcast Information
| Detail | Information |
| Fixture | Fluminense vs Al Hilal |
| Competition | 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Quarter-Final |
| Date | Friday, July 4, 2025 |
| Kick-off Time (ET) | 3:00 PM EDT (Orlando) |
| Kick-off Time (UK) | 8:00 PM BST |
| Venue | Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida, USA |
| TV Broadcast (USA) | DAZN, TNT, TBS, TruTV (select games) |
| Online Stream (USA) | DAZN |
| TV Broadcast (UK) | DAZN, Channel 5 |
| Online Stream (UK) | DAZN |
This table serves as a quick reference for fans globally, ensuring they have immediate access to the most vital match information. The availability across multiple platforms, particularly DAZN globally, highlights FIFA’s efforts to maximize viewership for this expanded tournament.
How to Watch Fluminense vs Al Hilal on TV & Online
Football fans worldwide have several options to catch the highly anticipated Fluminense vs Al Hilal quarter-final. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has broad broadcast coverage, ensuring that supporters don’t miss a moment of the action.
In the United States, all 63 matches of the tournament, including this quarter-final, are available to stream live on DAZN. Additionally, select games are being aired on TNT, TBS, and TruTV, offering traditional television viewing options for those with cable subscriptions. This multi-platform approach caters to a diverse audience, from dedicated streamers to conventional TV viewers.
For viewers in the United Kingdom, comprehensive coverage of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is provided live on DAZN. Furthermore, Channel 5 is also broadcasting certain matches, expanding accessibility for UK football enthusiasts. The global availability of DAZN as a live streaming service, often free of charge for these tournaments, underscores a strategic move by FIFA to reach a wider international audience and promote the new, expanded Club World Cup format. This widespread access is crucial for a tournament aiming for global impact, especially given the unexpected success of teams from various confederations.
Match Preview: A Clash of Giant-Slayers
The quarter-final between Fluminense and Al Hilal is set to be one of the most compelling fixtures of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Both teams arrive in Orlando having pulled off significant upsets in the Round of 16, eliminating two of Europe’s footballing powerhouses. This match is not just a battle for a semi-final spot; it’s a testament to the growing strength and tactical acumen of non-European clubs.
This encounter marks the first-ever meeting between Fluminense and Al Hilal. This lack of historical head-to-head data adds an element of unpredictability to the fixture, as neither side will have direct experience playing against the other’s specific style or key players. This absence of prior encounters means both coaching staffs will rely heavily on recent form, scouting, and adapting their strategies in real-time.
Fluminense’s journey to this stage has been marked by a blend of defensive resilience and clinical finishing. Their 2-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Round of 16 was a masterclass in disciplined defense and opportunistic attack. The Brazilian side demonstrated patience and ruthlessness, frustrating Inter’s attempts to break them down before capitalizing on their own chances. This ability to absorb pressure and strike effectively highlights their tactical maturity and the effectiveness of coach Renato Gaúcho’s approach. Their strong performance against a European giant like Inter Milan, who were 2025 Champions League runners-up, signals their intent to go deep into the tournament.
Al Hilal, on the other hand, delivered arguably the biggest shock of the tournament by defeating Manchester City 4-3 in an extra-time thriller. This victory was a culmination of tactical brilliance from coach Simone Inzaghi and immense fighting spirit from his players. Despite missing key attacking threats like Aleksandar Mitrovic and Salem Al-Dawsari, Al Hilal showcased a remarkable ability to control space, shut down City’s build-up, and exploit their weaknesses. Their performance against Manchester City, a team widely considered among the world’s elite, has significantly shifted perceptions of Saudi football and demonstrated the impact of their strategic investments in top-tier coaching and talent. The fact that they took the lead three times, including twice in extra time, speaks volumes about their resilience and determination.
The contrasting styles of play will make this a fascinating tactical battle. Fluminense’s resolute defensive structure, anchored by veteran goalkeeper Fábio and captain Thiago Silva, combined with the attacking flair of Jhon Arias and German Cano, presents a formidable challenge. Al Hilal, under Inzaghi, is known for its tactically fluid 3-5-2 system, utilizing aggressive pressing and wing-backs who contribute heavily to attack, even while adapting to defensive needs. The Saudi side’s ability to perform a “tactical masterclass” against Manchester City, despite significant injuries, suggests a deep understanding of their system and exceptional player discipline.
Both teams will be looking to capitalize on their recent momentum. Fluminense’s coach Renato Gaúcho emphasized the team’s humility and respect for their opponents, while also expressing immense pride in their ability to compete with top European sides. Al Hilal’s coach Simone Inzaghi lauded his team’s “heart” and “level of application” in their historic win, highlighting the extraordinary effort required to defeat a team like Manchester City. The mental fortitude demonstrated by both sides in their previous matches will be a critical factor in this quarter-final.
Fluminense vs Al hilal: Team News
The success of both Fluminense and Al Hilal in reaching the quarter-finals has come despite facing significant challenges, including injuries and suspensions. Understanding the current squad availability is crucial for anticipating the tactical setups and potential impact players in this highly anticipated match.
Fluminense Team News
Fluminense enters this quarter-final on the back of a stunning 2-0 victory over Inter Milan. However, their squad faces one notable absence. Left-back Renê will be unavailable for the match due to his second booking of the tournament, incurred against Inter. This suspension will force a change in the defensive line for coach Renato Gaúcho.
Beyond the suspension, there are some injury concerns. Midfielder Martinelli came off just after the hour mark against Inter with an injury, and his status for the quarter-final remains unclear. Additionally,
Otávio is a long-term absentee, having not played since March due to an Achilles tendon injury. The potential absence of Martinelli could impact Fluminense’s midfield dynamism and defensive solidity, requiring other players to step up.
Despite these challenges, Fluminense boasts a strong core. Veteran defender and captain Thiago Silva played against Inter Milan despite a hamstring injury sustained ten days prior, a testament to his commitment and the effectiveness of the medical team. His presence provides crucial leadership and defensive experience. Upfront,
Germán Cano has been clinical, scoring an early goal against Inter.
Jhon Arias has been a standout performer, earning three “Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match” awards for his exceptional displays, including an assist for Cano’s opener against Inter. Substitute
Hércules also made a decisive impact against Inter, sealing the victory with a stoppage-time goal. The collective effort and adaptability of the squad have been key to their success thus far.
Al Hilal Team News
Al Hilal’s remarkable 4-3 extra-time triumph over Manchester City came despite several significant injury setbacks. The Saudi club has been without two of their most potent attacking threats: leading scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic and captain Salem Al-Dawsari. Mitrovic has been sidelined with a muscle injury since before the tournament began, and Al-Dawsari is expected to miss the remainder of the competition due to a hamstring problem. These are substantial losses, as the pair combined for 55 goals and 25 assists in the previous season.
In defense, Hassan Al-Tambakti missed the win over Manchester City with a knee problem and could also be out for this match. Midfielder
Suhayb Al Zaid has been out since April with a Cruciate injury, and young player Kaio César is also injured.
Despite this extensive injury list, Al Hilal has shown incredible depth and resilience. Coach Simone Inzaghi has had to make tactical adjustments, including deploying midfielder Ruben Neves in central defense against Manchester City due to defensive injuries. The good news is that
Musab Al Juwayr has recovered from a knee injury and made a late substitute appearance against Manchester City, potentially offering more options. The emergence of players like
Marcos Leonardo, who scored two crucial goals against Manchester City, including the extra-time winner, has been vital in compensating for the absences. The team’s collective spirit and tactical discipline under Inzaghi have allowed them to overcome these significant personnel challenges.
Predicted Starting XIs
Forecasting the starting lineups for such a high-stakes quarter-final is always a challenge, especially with recent injuries and suspensions. However, based on recent performances, tactical preferences, and available squad information, here are the likely predicted XIs for both Fluminense and Al Hilal.
Fluminense Predicted XI
Under coach Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense has demonstrated tactical flexibility, including a shift to three defensive backs against Inter Milan to mirror their opponents’ setup. Given their success and the need to maintain a strong defensive foundation against a potent Al Hilal attack, a similar approach or a refined version of their established formation is expected. The absence of Renê at left-back will necessitate a change, with Fuentes a likely candidate to step in.
Fluminense Predicted Lineup (4-3-3 / 3-5-2 Hybrid):
- Goalkeeper: Fábio
- Defenders: Samuel Xavier, Thiago Silva (C), Freytes, Fuentes
- Midfielders: Martinelli, Hércules, Nonato
- Forwards: Jhon Arias, Germán Cano, Canobbio
Note: The inclusion of Martinelli in the predicted XI is contingent on his recovery from the injury sustained against Inter Milan. If he is unavailable, other midfield options like André or Lima could be considered, or a slight tactical tweak might be implemented. Thiago Silva’s continued presence, despite his recent injury, is a testament to his importance and determination.
Al Hilal Predicted XI
Al Hilal, managed by the tactically astute Simone Inzaghi, is known for his preference for a 3-5-2 formation, which can fluidly shift to a 5-3-2 in defense. Despite the significant injuries to key attackers Mitrovic and Al-Dawsari, and defensive absences like Al-Tambakti, the team has adapted remarkably well, as evidenced by their victory over Manchester City. The return of Musab Al Juwayr provides some depth, but the core of the team that beat City is expected to start.
Al Hilal Predicted Lineup (3-5-2):
- Goalkeeper: Bono
- Defenders: João Cancelo, Al-Harbi, Kalidou Koulibaly, Renan Lodi
- Midfielders: Nasser Al-Dawsari, Ruben Neves, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Kanno (C)
- Forwards: Malcom, Marcos Leonardo
Note: Ruben Neves’s versatility in dropping into central defense has been crucial in covering for injuries. The attacking partnership of Malcom and the in-form Marcos Leonardo, who has netted three goals in his last two appearances, including two against Manchester City, will be critical for Al Hilal’s offensive threat. Kanno is listed as captain in some sources for this specific match.
Tactical Analysis
The quarter-final between Fluminense and Al Hilal promises a fascinating tactical duel, pitting two highly effective, yet distinct, approaches against each other. Both teams have demonstrated remarkable tactical discipline and adaptability to reach this stage, especially in overcoming formidable European opponents.
Fluminense’s Tactical Approach
Fluminense, under Renato Gaúcho, has established a reputation for a resolute defensive structure combined with a potent attacking line. Their 2-0 victory over Inter Milan was a prime example of this strategy. The team showed immense patience, allowing Inter Milan to dominate possession (68%) but denying them clear-cut opportunities, while being clinical on the counter. This ability to play a “complete game” involves both robust defending and incisive transitions.
A key tactical adjustment observed was Gaúcho’s decision to employ three defensive backs against Inter Milan, aiming to mirror their opponent’s formation and stifle their attacking lanes. This defensive solidity is anchored by the veteran presence of
Thiago Silva and the exceptional goalkeeping of Fábio, who made crucial saves against Inter. The team’s ability to maintain a “low block” in defense, staying well-organized, made it difficult for Inter to find solutions.
In attack, Fluminense relies heavily on the creativity and dynamism of Jhon Arias, who has been instrumental in creating chances and has earned multiple Player of the Match awards. His cross led to Germán Cano’s early opener against Inter, showcasing the directness of their attacking play. The late goal by Hércules against Inter further highlighted their ability to capitalize on breakaways in crucial moments. Fluminense’s approach is often pragmatic, prioritizing defensive stability and then exploiting moments of transition or set-pieces. They are comfortable playing without significant possession, focusing on efficiency in both boxes.
Al Hilal’s Tactical Approach
Al Hilal, under the guidance of former Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi, has showcased a tactical masterclass, particularly in their stunning win against Manchester City. Inzaghi is renowned for his effective deployment of the
3-5-2 tactical setup, a system that emphasizes wing-back play and a strong central midfield. This formation is highly fluid, capable of transitioning into a 5-3-2 in defensive phases, providing robust coverage across the pitch.
Inzaghi’s strategy against Manchester City involved aggressive pressing and a disciplined defensive structure that controlled space and suffocated City’s build-up play. They implemented effective “pressing traps” that disrupted Pep Guardiola’s midfield, preventing City from establishing their usual rhythm. This ability to outwit one of the greatest managers in football history, despite missing key players, speaks volumes about Inzaghi’s coaching prowess and the team’s understanding of his system.
Key to Al Hilal’s success has been the midfield trio, often featuring Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who provide both defensive cover and creative impetus. Their ability to win midfield battles and launch quick attacks has been crucial. Despite the absence of top scorer Mitrovic, the emergence of
Marcos Leonardo as a clinical finisher has been vital, demonstrating the team’s adaptability in the final third. The wing-backs, such as João Cancelo and Renan Lodi, are integral to Inzaghi’s system, providing width in attack and tracking back diligently in defense. Al Hilal’s tactical versatility allows them to implement both a high press and a mid-block, adapting their defensive intensity based on the opponent and game state.
Key Tactical Battlegrounds
The match will likely be decided in several key areas:
- Midfield Control: Both teams rely on strong midfield performances. Fluminense’s Martinelli and Hércules will need to disrupt Al Hilal’s flow, while Neves and Milinkovic-Savic will aim to dictate play and create openings. The battle for central dominance will be critical.
- Wing-Back vs. Wide Attackers: Al Hilal’s wing-backs are crucial to their offensive and defensive shape. Fluminense’s Jhon Arias, operating in wide areas, will test their defensive discipline, while Al Hilal’s wide players will aim to exploit any space left by Fluminense’s fullbacks.
- Defensive Resilience vs. Opportunistic Attack: Fluminense’s ability to absorb pressure and hit on the break will be tested by Al Hilal’s structured build-up and aggressive forward play. Conversely, Al Hilal’s defense, while strong, will need to be wary of Fluminense’s quick transitions and the clinical finishing of Cano.
- Set Pieces: In a tight knockout game, set pieces could prove decisive. Both teams will need to be organized defensively and creative offensively from dead-ball situations.
The match will be a chess match between two astute coaches, each looking to exploit the other’s weaknesses while maximizing their own strengths. The team that executes its game plan with greater precision and maintains composure under pressure will likely emerge victorious.
Fluminense vs Al hilal: Prediction
The quarter-final clash between Fluminense and Al Hilal is incredibly difficult to predict, given both teams’ recent stunning upset victories and the sheer momentum they carry into this match. This fixture pits two tactically astute sides against each other, each with a clear identity and a proven ability to perform under pressure.
Fluminense demonstrated exceptional defensive organization and clinical finishing in their 2-0 win over Inter Milan. Their ability to absorb pressure and then strike decisively, particularly through the likes of Jhon Arias and Germán Cano, makes them a dangerous opponent. The Brazilians have a strong collective spirit and are representing South America with pride, a factor that often fuels their performances in major tournaments.
Al Hilal, however, has arguably pulled off the bigger shock by eliminating Manchester City in extra time, scoring four goals against one of Europe’s most formidable defenses. This victory, achieved despite significant injuries to key players like Mitrovic and Al-Dawsari, highlights their incredible depth, resilience, and the tactical brilliance of coach Simone Inzaghi. The emergence of Marcos Leonardo as a prolific scorer in the tournament has been a game-changer for them.
The key to this match will be how well each team can impose its tactical will. Fluminense will likely aim to frustrate Al Hilal with their disciplined defensive block and look for quick transitions. Al Hilal, with their fluid 3-5-2 system and aggressive pressing, will seek to dominate the midfield and exploit wide areas through their wing-backs. The absence of Renê for Fluminense and the continued injuries for Al Hilal will test the depth of both squads.
Considering the attacking prowess Al Hilal has shown, even without their main striker, and the tactical masterclass they delivered against Manchester City, they might have a slight edge in terms of offensive variety and ability to break down a compact defense. However, Fluminense’s defensive solidity and the individual brilliance of Arias and Cano cannot be underestimated. This match has all the hallmarks of a tight, cagey affair, potentially going into extra time, much like Al Hilal’s previous fixture.
Predicted Score: Fluminense 1-2 Al Hilal (after extra time)
Tip
Given the evenly matched nature of these two giant-slayers and their recent history of high-stakes, drawn-out contests, a strong betting tip would be to consider the possibility of the game extending beyond regular time.
Tip: Match to go to Extra Time or Highest-scoring half: 2nd half. Both teams have shown they can keep things tight in the opening half, especially in crucial knockout matches, before opening up later in the game. Four of Fluminense’s six goals and five of Al Hilal’s seven goals in the Club World Cup have come after half-time, including all of Al Hilal’s last five. This suggests that a patient approach in the first 45 minutes could lead to more action and potential breakthroughs in the second half and beyond.
Additionally, considering the impressive goal-scoring form of Al Hilal’s Marcos Leonardo, who has scored three goals in his last two appearances, including a brace against Manchester City, backing him as an anytime goalscorer could be a valuable proposition.
The Fluminense vs Al Hilal quarter-final is shaping up to be a defining moment in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, showcasing the rising global competitiveness in club football. Both teams have defied expectations, with Fluminense’s disciplined victory over Inter Milan and Al Hilal’s stunning triumph against Manchester City serving as powerful declarations of intent. These results highlight a compelling narrative: the tournament is no longer solely dominated by European powerhouses, but is seeing strong challenges from South American and Asian representatives. The fact that three non-European teams have reached the quarter-finals, with Brazilian clubs performing particularly well, signals a significant shift in the global football landscape.
This match represents a fascinating tactical clash between Fluminense’s resolute defense and opportunistic attack, and Al Hilal’s fluid, aggressive system under Simone Inzaghi. The absence of key players due to injury and suspension for both sides adds an additional layer of complexity, emphasizing the importance of squad depth and tactical adaptability. The performance of individual talents like Jhon Arias for Fluminense and Marcos Leonardo for Al Hilal will be pivotal in unlocking defenses and securing progression.
As the tournament moves into its decisive stages, the stakes are incredibly high, with a substantial prize fund and global prestige on the line. The
Fluminense vs Al Hilal encounter is more than just a football match; it’s a symbol of the evolving power dynamics in world football, promising an enthralling spectacle for fans across the globe.
